Addis Ababa Becoming a Key Hub for Sports and Conference Tourism
Addis Ababa is redefining itself as a premier destination for sports tourism and international conferences, thanks to sweeping corridor development and riverside rehabilitation projects. These transformative initiatives have reshaped urban spaces, upgraded essential infrastructure, and enhanced the city’s appeal, drawing both local and international interest.
City officials and tourism stakeholders highlight that these projects are central to Ethiopia’s broader efforts to reposition Addis Ababa as a modern diplomatic, business, and tourism hub. At the same time, they have significantly improved the quality of life for residents by preserving and beautifying the city's natural environment.
A key aspect of the city’s transformation is the revitalization of riverbanks and the creation of green public spaces, which have established Addis Ababa as a growing center for?sports tourism?, particularly cycling and other non-motorized transport activities. These developments were on full display during a recent bicycle festival held at Arada Park under the theme "Bicycle in Addis." The monthly event aims to promote sports tourism while increasing public awareness of healthy and sustainable transport options.
Binyam Taye, Deputy Commissioner of the Addis Ababa City Tourism Commission, emphasized the economic significance of tourism in Ethiopia’s national development. He noted that the corridor and riverfront projects have not only transformed the cityscape but also bolstered its capacity to host major?continental and international sporting events?, with cycling emerging as a key highlight. “The beautification of the city and upgraded infrastructure have created a favorable environment for sports tourism and cycling as an alternative mode of transportation,” he said.
The impact of these projects extends beyond tourism. Asmerom Berhane, Deputy Head of the Addis Ababa City Administration Transport Bureau, pointed out that urban mobility has also improved dramatically. “The achievements that have preserved the city’s landscape have created a conducive environment for bicycle transportation,” he said, adding that continued efforts are being made to integrate non-motorized transport into the city’s culture.
Participants in the bicycle festival praised the city’s transformation. Salamwit Endale, a young attendee, noted that the event revealed Addis Ababa’s growing potential for sports tourism. Alemayehu Barasso, another participant, highlighted how the corridor and riverside projects have made cycling more enjoyable, promoting healthy lifestyles while showcasing the city’s urban progress.
Beyond sports, Addis Ababa’s role as a ?conference tourism? destination is also expanding, reinforced by the state-of-the-art? Addis International Convention Center?. Since becoming operational, the facility has hosted over 73 international conferences and major events, including the African Climate Summit. According to Kirubel Kefyalew, Deputy Manager of the center, the facility is significantly boosting the city’s capacity to host large-scale gatherings. “The center is enhancing Addis Ababa’s profile as a destination for international conferences and supporting the implementation of the African Free Trade Area by providing quality and efficient services,” Kirubel said.
Located on an expansive 40 hectares of land, the Addis International Convention Center boasts two large halls that can accommodate between 3,000 and 4,000 attendees, alongside eight smaller meeting spaces with a combined capacity for up to 10,000 participants. Supporting facilities, including residential apartments within the compound, are set to open soon, further enhancing its offerings. Event organizer Yoadan Tilahun highlighted the importance of providing world-class services, while cultural restaurant manager Eshetu Alemayewe noted the appeal of showcasing Ethiopian culture through hospitality, which has drawn interest from international visitors.
The combined impact of these developments—spanning corridor and riverside rehabilitation, cultural preservation, infrastructure upgrades, and modern conference facilities—is steadily elevating Addis Ababa’s status as a leading?diplomatic, business, and cultural hub? in Africa. City officials are optimistic that these efforts will continue to strengthen the city’s tourism appeal, positioning it as a vibrant destination for both leisure and professional travelers.
